How does Jeremiah 26:2 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Text in Focus Jeremiah 26:2 — “Thus says the LORD: Stand in the court of the LORD’s house and speak to all the cities of Judah that come to worship there, everything I command you to say; do not hold back a word.” Matthew 28:19-20 — “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Shared Heartbeat: Speak All That God Commands • Both passages feature a clear, divine order: “everything I command you to say” (Jeremiah 26:2) and “teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). • God never permits selective editing of His message. Whether Jeremiah in the temple courts or believers on a global mission, withholding truth is disobedience. See also Acts 20:27. • The phrase “do not hold back a word” foreshadows the Great Commission’s call to full-orbed teaching—no trimming the gospel to suit culture or comfort (Romans 1:16). Scope: From the Temple Courts to the Ends of the Earth • Jeremiah addressed “all the cities of Judah that come to worship.” Location: one nation, one house of worship. • Jesus widens the horizon: “all nations.” The message moves from a single courtyard to every corner of the planet (Isaiah 49:6; Acts 1:8). • The principle is the same—God gathers people to hear His word—but the reach multiplies exponentially after Christ’s resurrection. Authority Backing the Messenger • In Jeremiah, the authority is “Thus says the LORD.” Jeremiah stands because God speaks. • In Matthew, Christ declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18). His universal authority validates the worldwide charge. • Whether Old Covenant prophet or New Covenant disciple, the messenger’s confidence rests on divine backing, not personal charisma (Jeremiah 1:7-8; 2 Corinthians 5:20). Content: Call to Repent and Obey • Jeremiah’s sermons urged Judah to repent and avert judgment (Jeremiah 26:3). • The Great Commission commands making disciples who “obey” everything Jesus taught. Repentance and obedience are inseparable (Luke 24:47; John 14:15). • Both texts display God’s mercy: He warns before He judges and sends messengers before He acts (2 Peter 3:9). Presence Promised to the Faithful Speaker • Jeremiah faced hostility, yet God reassured him repeatedly (Jeremiah 1:19; 15:20). • Jesus promises, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). The same faithful presence empowers courage in every era (Hebrews 13:5-6). Practical Takeaways • Proclaim the whole counsel: No trimming doctrines—speak of sin, grace, judgment, and hope. • Broaden your vision: Move beyond familiar circles; God’s heart beats for “all nations.” • Lean on divine authority: Christ’s lordship supplies both the right and the power to speak. • Trust His presence: Opposition is certain (2 Timothy 3:12), but the Lord stands with His messengers. Conclusion Jeremiah 26:2 and Matthew 28:19-20 form a seamless thread: God commands His people to deliver His entire message, empowered by His authority and accompanied by His presence, so that hearers might repent, obey, and find life. |
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